Discover Villa de Leyva, a colonial and historic town and enjoy the vineyard.

Discover Villa de Leyva, a colonial and historic town and enjoy the vineyard.
Rating: 4.5/5
Price: $239 per person
Duration: approximately 10 hours
Location: Bogotá, Colombia
Supplier: transfers & tours Colombia

Imagine stepping back in time as you stroll through whitewashed colonial houses along cobblestone streets in the heart of the Andes. This private day trip from Bogotá offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and local flavor, with a visit to Villa de Leyva, a town that radiates charm and mystique. You’ll also spend part of your day at a local vineyard, tasting Colombian wines that add a delicious contemporary twist to your journey.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour: First, the personalized experience that private guides provide, making sure you see what interests you most. Second, the chance to visit an archaeological site sacred to the Muisca people—a rare glimpse into indigenous history.

A possible consideration? The full-day nature of the trip means you’ll want to be prepared for a long day on your feet, and the weather can be variable—dressing in layers and comfortable shoes is advisable.

This tour suits travelers who value authentic cultural encounters and enjoy exploring small towns full of history, alongside those interested in Colombia’s wine culture. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive day out without the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets themselves.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience ensures you see your preferred sights at your own pace.
• All-inclusive transportation makes getting to and from Bogotá seamless and stress-free.
• Visit to the Muisca observatory offers a rare look into indigenous astronomical practices.
• Vineyard tour and tastings add a delicious local flavor to the day.
• Flexible itinerary allows you to explore sites like the monastery, pottery house, or mineral pools depending on your interests.
• Great for cultural enthusiasts and wine lovers who appreciate depth over surface-level sightseeing.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Early: Convenience and Comfort
The tour begins with a 6:00 am pickup from your Bogotá hotel, an early start that pays off with a full day of exploration. The transport is in a comfortable vehicle, and the private guide helps tailor the visit to your preferences. This setup is ideal if you dislike large groups or want a more intimate experience, as confirmed by recent reviews praising guides like Cindy and drivers like Pedro for their professionalism and friendliness.

First Stop: Villa de Leyva
Once in Villa de Leyva, you’re greeted by Colombia’s largest cobblestone plaza, Plaza Mayor, which immediately sets the tone for a town rich in colonial architecture and history. The central square hosts the 17th-century church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario and the House of the First Congress of the United Provinces, where Colombia’s independence laws were drafted after 1812.

Visitors have described the town as “beautiful,” “charming,” and “full of magic,” with a sense of timelessness that’s hard to match. The slow pace of walking through these streets, lined with whitewashed houses and clay-tile roofs, invites you to soak in the atmosphere. This stop, lasting about 40 minutes, is an excellent introduction, giving you enough time to admire the architecture and snap photos.

Cultural and Historical Highlights
Next, you might visit the Monasterio del Santo Eccehomo, a 17th-century Dominican convent just 8 kilometers outside the town. The review mentions it as “very pleasant,” with a rich sense of history and spiritual tranquility. The included ticket makes this a hassle-free stop, allowing you to explore without extra planning.

Vineyard Experience
One of the tour’s standout features is the visit to Vinedo Ain Karim, located along the Sutamarchán-Santa Sofía highway. Here, you’ll stroll around an artificial lake and fields of vines, learning about the process of grape cultivation, fermentation, and wine production. The expert guides help translate these processes into a tasting experience, where you can sample wines under the Marqués de Villa de Leyva label.

The reviews describe this as a “great wine” experience, with visitors appreciating the opportunity to taste local varieties and learn about Colombian winemaking. The two-hour visit offers enough time to enjoy the scenery, ask questions, and indulge in a glass or two.

Exploring Surroundings: Ráquira and More
After the vineyard, a visit to Ráquira offers a delightful contrast with its brightly colored houses and vibrant handicrafts—like walking through a living Christmas scene. The architecture is simple but striking, and the town’s charm makes it a favorite photo stop. Many visitors find Ráquira to be “beautiful everywhere you look,” with artisans showcasing traditional crafts. You’ll have about 1 hour and 15 minutes here, with the chance to enjoy a regional or vegetarian lunch.

Additional options, depending on your interests, include visiting mineral pools at Pozos Azules or exploring the local history museum. The flexible itinerary means you can tailor the afternoon to what excites you most.

Ancient Observations and Indigenous Heritage
Perhaps most intriguing is the visit to the Muisca Observatory, an archaeological site where indigenous people once tracked celestial movements. This element adds a layer of depth, connecting visitors with pre-Columbian astronomy practices—an aspect especially valued by those interested in indigenous cultures and ancient sciences.

Comfort and Practicalities
The tour is all about convenience—hotel pickup and drop-off in Bogotá eliminate the stress of logistics. The price of $239 includes tickets, water, and lunch, which offers good value considering the full-day nature and private setting. The tour operates rain or shine, and the terrain may be grassy or uneven, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Recent reviews emphasize the professionalism of guides and the beauty of the sights, confirming that this trip offers more than just sightseeing; it’s an engaging journey through Colombia’s history, culture, and landscape.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed day exploring Colombia’s colonial towns, archaeological sites, and wine culture—all in one package. History buffs will appreciate the authentic sites like the Muisca observatory and the House of the First Congress, while those seeking scenic beauty will love the cobblestone streets and colorful towns.

If you enjoy personalized attention and flexible itineraries, the private guide setup offers a more tailored experience than larger group tours. It’s well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone eager for a deep, authentic look at Colombia’s heritage without the stress of planning every detail.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:00 am with hotel pickup, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

Is the tour private or shared?
This is a private tour, so only your group participates, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, guide, tickets to sites, water, and lunch.

Are there any extra costs?
Alcoholic beverages and additional food are not included and are at your own expense.

How long is the drive from Bogotá?
The exact duration depends on traffic, but it’s a scenic drive to a beautiful destination with minimal hassle.

Can I tailor the itinerary?
Yes, the afternoon stops are flexible—visit the monastery, vineyard, mineral pools, or other sites based on your interests.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to unpaved and uneven terrain. Dress in layers for weather changes.

Is it suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for most travelers, including families, as long as they are comfortable walking and standing.

How long do I spend in each location?
Most stops range from 40 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your interests and the day’s flow.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour date.

Final Thoughts

For those craving an enriching day outside Bogotá, this private tour to Villa de Leyva and the vineyard offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. The chance to walk through Colombia’s largest colonial plaza, explore indigenous archaeological sites, and sample local wines makes for a memorable experience.

You’ll love the knowledgeable guides who bring history to life and the stunning views that transform a simple trip into a special journey. The experience is particularly suited for travelers who enjoy authentic cultural encounters, relaxed pacing, and private, tailored attention.

While it’s a full day, the variety of stops ensures you won’t feel rushed—just ready to savor every moment of Colombia’s charming past and vibrant present. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a wine lover, or simply eager to see Colombia’s beautiful small towns, this tour is a worthwhile investment in a truly authentic adventure.